Variable Torque Drive Module with Planetary Gear Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive assemblies for variable torque distribution in motor vehicles are complex, leading to assembly difficulties and a need for simpler, easier-to-assemble solutions.
Innovation Solution
A drive module with a first and second shaft, a transmission stage featuring a planetary gear and a carrier element, and a coupling mechanism that allows for easy attachment to a differential drive, enabling variable torque distribution between the shafts, with an axial setting device for precise control and a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing drive assemblies with multiple couplings and complex transmission stages are used, then variable torque distribution between output shafts is achieved, but device complexity increases and assembly difficulty arises
Solution Approach 1:
The drive assembly is divided into modular components: a differential unit with integrated first and second shafts, and a separate transmission unit with the planetary gear transmission stage. This segmentation allows independent manufacturing and assembly of each module, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining the capability for variable torque distribution between the two shafts.
Solution Approach 2:
The differential unit with its two shafts serves multiple functions: it provides both the differential torque distribution function and the input/output shafts for the transmission stage. The first shaft connects to the differential carrier while the second shaft connects to the planetary gear carrier, allowing the same differential mechanism to serve both traditional differential functions and the new variable torque distribution function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing drive assemblies with multiple couplings are used, then torque can be branched and redistributed, but the number of parts increases leading to assembly difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the torque branching function with the differential mechanism itself. The first shaft, connected to the differential carrier, and the second shaft, connected to the planetary gear carrier, work together as an integrated unit to branch and redistribute torque. This eliminates the need for separate coupling mechanisms required in traditional designs, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The planetary gear transmission stage acts as an intermediary mechanism between the first shaft (differential carrier connection) and the second shaft. It provides the necessary torque transformation and distribution without requiring multiple discrete couplings, thereby simplifying the overall assembly while maintaining torque branching capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The drive module provides a simple, easy-to-assemble solution for variable torque distribution, enhancing driving stability and adaptability for different applications, such as axle and central differentials, while allowing for precise torque control and compact design.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission stage (25) arranged in the torque flow between the first shaft (19) and the second shaft (22), having at least one planetary gear (27)
Implementation Method 2
a coupling (37) which is supported in the housing (18) and which serves to couple the carrier element (32) relative to the housing (18), wherein, as a result of coupling the carrier element (32) relative to the housing (18), there takes place a transmission of torque
Data Source
AI summary
A drive module (5, 6) for a variable torque distribution in the driveline of a motor vehicle. The drive module (5, 6) has a first shaft (19) rotatably supported relative to a stationary housing (18); a second shaft (22) which is drivingly connected to the first shaft (19); and a transmission stage (25) arranged in the torque flow between the first and second shafts (19, 22). The transmission stage (25) has at least one planetary gear (27) and a rotating carrier element (32). A coupling (37) serves to couple the carrier element (32) relative to the housing (18). When coupled, torque transmission occurs from one of the first or second shaft (19, 22), to the other one of the two shafts. The housing (18), the first shaft (19), the second shaft (22), the transmission stage (25) and the coupling (37) form part of a unit adapted to attach to a drive (3).